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Around 4,000 people took part in a memory walk around Cardiff Bay on Sunday.

Organisers said the number of participants at the Alzheimer’s Society Cardiff Memory Walk far exceeded the 3,000 they expected.

Walkers are expected to have raised about £240,000 for the cause.

Linda Smith cut the ribbon to start the walk at Roald Dahl Plass, accompanied by three generations of her family, including husband Steve and four-year-old granddaughter Maisy.

Linda, who was diagnosed with dementia aged 57, said: “It is absolutely amazing that so many people joined together for the day like one big family. I’m still shocked by having dementia in my fifties. It felt like the worst thing that could happen, like being ripped apart.

“Taking part in today’s Memory Walk is a step in the right direction for me. I’m proud to be doing it for people facing the same challenges.”

Alzheimer’s Society operations manager for Cardiff, Melanie Andrews, stressed how dementia can happen to anyone. Speaking about Linda, she said: “To see her – she’s vibrant, full of energy and spark.”

Melanie added: “Memory Walk is a wonderful occasion and demonstration of solidarity. So many people stepped out together with a commitment to our community through raising money for services and research to help people living with dementia.

“We have a real buzz at the event with a lovely atmosphere in stunning surroundings. It’s been a great day in a brilliant cause.”

Toddlers, the elderly and wheelchair-bound participants were among those taking part.

“What’s special about memory walk is that there isn’t a particular group,” Melanie said. “It appeals to entire families.”

Walkers started at Roald Dahl Plass and could walk 4km towards the Cardiff Bay Barrage before meandering back or they could continue to Penarth and around the marina for the 10km walk.

Melanie said: “Families walk in honour or in memory of their loved ones.”

Participants could write messages to their loved ones at a special Memory Tree.